FIFA President Sepp Blatter is surprised that John Terry has been sacked as England captain and has said that the centre-back would have been applauded in some countries for having an alleged affair.

GettyImagesJohn Terry was culpable for both of Louis Saha's goals at Goodison.

• Everton 2-1 Chelsea

England manager Fabio Capello stripped Terry of the captaincy on Friday following revelations in the UK press about the defender's private life, including allegations that he had an extra-marital affair with the ex-partner of England team-mate Wayne Bridge.

Despite the nationwide controversy in England, Blatter joked that in "Latin" countries, Terry's conduct may not have been considered a problem.

Blatter said: "Listen, this is a special approach in the Anglo-Saxon countries. If this had happened in let's say Latin countries then I think he would have been applauded."

Terry flew out to Dubai on Thursday to be with his wife, Toni, after the Chelsea defender was granted leave to sort out his private life.

Assistant manager Ray Wilkins confirmed Terry would not be required for Saturday's FA Cup tie with Cardiff City and that Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti decided it was best to rest his skipper.

Wilkins said: "He will not play this weekend. Carlo is giving him a bit of time off. He will come back and prepare for our game against Wolves on the 20th. They just had a little chat, John and Carlo, and decided that would be the best for all concerned."

Terry was at fault for both of Everton's goals as Chelsea slumped to a 2-1 defeat at Everton on Wednesday night.